Optimizing gum exudation from Moringa perigrina

Abstract

Moringa perigrina is a tree distributed in Yemen and some countries of Asia and Africa. It is rare in Wadi Hadhramout and is scattered as singular plant. The species is threatened to extinction because of poor regeneration. Gum exudate from the tree is of medicinal use in backpain treatment. Experiment was conducted at Swairy forest research arboretum on trees for gum exudation in each month of the year wherein buds, stems and branches of different diameter size classes were wounded to find out best period and wound size for gum production. October was best month for gum exudation and a tree of 6 years old produced 6.2 kg gum /year with a mean of 8 wounds each month. Additionally, observations were also recorded of the gum production naturally occurring on different plants.